Korean Sun Patches: The Hottest Trend Of 2024 And The Best Products To Buy

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Sun protection has always been a crucial component of skincare routines, serving as a barrier against harmful UV rays that cause premature skin ageing, sunburn, and other skin concerns. However, with the constant evolution of the beauty industry, an innovation from Korea is gaining massive attention – sun patches. Also called “golf patches”

Going viral in Korea, these skincare marvels., also called “golf patches” since they’ve started to be used by people playing golf, are becoming the talk of the town and might be the game-changing product we all need this summer. Sun patches provide sun protection while addressing other skincare needs, effectively marrying convenience with efficacy in a tiny, easy-to-use product.

These patches offer a novel way of keeping your skin safe under the sun, moving beyond traditional sunscreens. With their lightweight and breathable design, they physically block UV rays, offering a high degree of protection without needing regular reapplication. Infused with various skin-loving ingredients, sun patches offer numerous skincare benefits, making them much more than just a UV shield.

In this article, I will delve into the world of sun patches, discussing how they work and the benefits they bring and highlighting some of the best products that have caught my attention.

As an avid K-beauty lover and user, I’ve tested the products, and the ones featured in this article have been independently selected, based on thorough research and use, so you can trust you’re getting an unbiased perspective on this trending skincare phenomenon. As we journey through this piece, you might find the perfect sun patch that becomes a staple in your summer skincare routine.

Understanding The Importance Of Sun Protection

The dangers of prolonged sun exposure to our skin are manifold. When unprotected skin is exposed to UV rays from the sun, it can result in a series of detrimental effects, with premature skin ageing being a significant concern. Signs of aging, such as wrinkles, age spots, and a loss of skin elasticity, often occur much earlier than expected when the skin is regularly subjected to UV radiation. Studies reveal that sun damage is responsible for up to 90% of visible changes associated with skin ageing, making sun protection an essential component of any effective skincare routine.

Sunscreen, long regarded as the standard in sun protection, is crucial in safeguarding the skin from harmful UV rays. However, relying solely on sunscreen comes with its own set of drawbacks that limit its effectiveness. One major issue is the degradation of active ingredients in sunscreen over time. When sunscreen is exposed to sunlight, its active ingredients begin to break down. This process, known as photostability, can significantly decrease the effectiveness of the sunscreen, leaving the skin more susceptible to sun damage.

Another problem with sunscreen use lies in the application process itself. For optimal sun protection, it’s recommended that sunscreen be reapplied every two hours. However, this isn’t always practical, especially during outdoor activities or for individuals with busy schedules. Moreover, the application must be generous and ensure that all exposed skin is adequately protected. Missed spots or skimpy applications can leave the skin vulnerable to sun damage.

Furthermore, sunscreen must often be combined with other protective measures, such as wearing sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, and hats and seeking shade during peak sun intensity hours. Sole reliance on sunscreen might give a false sense of complete protection and lead to risky behavior, such as extended sun exposure.

Given these challenges, it’s clear that while sunscreen remains a crucial tool in our sun protection arsenal, it cannot be the only line of defense. Sun patches represent an innovative solution to these drawbacks, offering consistent, hassle-free sun protection that does not degrade with sun exposure. In the following sections, I’ll delve into this new skincare marvel quickly becoming a must-have in our sun protection toolkit.

What Are Sun Patches?

Sun patches are an innovative beauty solution that has taken the skincare industry by storm, particularly in regions like Korea, where skincare advancements are always at the forefront. Sun patches are lightweight adhesive patches that adhere to the skin and provide a physical barrier against harmful UV rays. They function by reflecting and scattering the sun’s rays, thereby protecting the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

Unlike traditional sunscreens that absorb into the skin and rely on chemical reactions to protect against UV radiation, sun patches essentially act as mini sun shields that remain on the surface of your skin. Typically worn on areas of the face prone to sun spots, such as the cheeks, they provide a physical block against harmful solar radiation. This innovative approach ensures that the skin underneath the patch remains shielded from direct sun exposure, reducing the risk of sunburn, skin ageing, and other sun-induced skin problems.

One of the critical highlights of sun patches is their high UV protection rate. They have been designed to block a significant percentage of UVA and UVB rays—up to 93% of UVA and 99% of UVB rays, to be specific. It’s worth noting that UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature skin aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn. Given that both types of rays increase the risk of skin cancer, the broad-spectrum protection offered by sun patches is a substantial advantage.

Another significant feature of sun patches is their longevity. Because they provide a physical barrier, there’s no need to worry about the active ingredients breaking down over time as they do with traditional sunscreens. This gives them a longer effective period, eliminating the need for frequent reapplication and making sun patches a highly convenient option for sun protection.

The Benefits Of The Sun Patches

Sun patches are not just about sun protection; they bring many other benefits that make them a valuable addition to any skincare regimen. First and foremost, sun patches win big on the ease-of-use front. Their lightweight and breathable nature means they’re comfortable to wear throughout the day, even during outdoor activities or warmer weather. They adhere excellently to the skin, staying firmly in place even as you do your daily activities. This eliminates the hassle of constant reapplication, a common issue of traditional sunscreens.

Beyond their functional benefits, sun patches also pack a skincare punch. Many are infused with skin-nourishing ingredients, transforming them from a simple sun shield into a mini skincare treatment. Ingredients such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica extract, glutathione, and collagen are commonly found in these patches, offering various benefits, including hydration, soothing, brightening, and even anti-aging care. Imagine a skincare mask you could wear all day while protecting your skin from the sun — it’s no wonder sun patches are making waves in the beauty industry!

Additionally, sun patches provide a pleasant cooling effect, particularly beneficial on hot summer days. This cooling sensation is more than just a comfort feature; it’s an essential aspect of skin health. When your skin overheats, it can become prone to aging, increased oil production, skin dryness, enlarged pores, and decreased skin elasticity. Sun patches, typically made of hydrogel, can effectively reduce skin temperature while simultaneously offering UV protection. This helps keep your skin cool, soothed, and protected, all in one go.

In summary, sun patches are not merely about blocking harmful rays; they represent a multi-faceted approach to skincare that combines sun protection with skin nourishment and comfort. Their ease of use, skincare benefits, and cooling effects make them valuable to anyone’s skincare routine, especially those seeking comprehensive sun protection.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Using Sun Patches 

But how to use sun patches? Integrating sun patches into your daily skincare routine is straightforward, but there are a few crucial steps to remember to maximize their efficacy. Here is a simple guide on sun patches, ensuring you reap the full benefits of these innovative skincare products.

Start by preparing your skin. It’s essential to lightly remove any oil or residue from the area where you will place the patch. This step ensures a clean canvas for the patch, allowing it to adhere to your skin more effectively. You can use a gentle toner or micellar water on a cotton pad to cleanse the area.

Next, carefully remove the sun patch from the film. Handle the patch with clean hands to prevent any transfer of dirt or oil that could interfere with its adhesion. You’ll often find sun patches are designed in unique shapes to fit specific areas of your face.

Once you’ve removed the sun patch, it’s time to apply it. Aim to put the patch under the eyes, positioning the broad side towards the cheekbone. This placement optimally shields the delicate skin around the eyes and high points of your face that tend to catch the sun more. 

Remember, sun patches are not intended to replace sunscreen but to supplement it. After applying the patch, it’s crucial to add broad-spectrum sunscreen to the uncovered areas of your skin. This step ensures you are fully protected against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Remember to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every two hours or immediately after sweating or swimming.

The Most Popular Korean Sun Patches To Buy This Year 

As the benefits and convenience of sun patches become increasingly recognized, various brands have stepped into the arena, each with their unique take on this innovative sun protection solution. From patches infused with hydrating and skin-brightening ingredients to those promising maximum UV protection, the market is teeming with options designed to cater to diverse skincare needs and preferences. 

In the following section, I will delve into a curated list of popular sun patch products that have garnered attention in the beauty community. Each product mentioned offers unique features and advantages, giving you a well-rounded perspective on available sun patch products. Get ready to discover the product that might just become your new summer skincare essential.

Mediheal UV Cut Outdoor Sun Patch [Triple Protection]

Among the many sun patches available in the market, the Mediheal UV Cut Outdoor Sun Patch [Triple Protection] has caught significant attention for its comprehensive features and benefits. It is designed to serve as a robust shield against harmful UVA and UVB rays and deliver nourishment to the skin, making it a multifunctional skincare product worth considering.

This patch provides targeted protection to areas most susceptible to sun exposure, such as the eyes, cheekbones, and cheeks. However, the effectiveness of its UV protection does not compromise its breathability. The fabric is engineered to allow superior air circulation, ensuring your skin remains comfortable and dry throughout the day. This makes it an excellent choice for wear during various outdoor activities, whether hitting the golf course, climbing a mountain, or simply enjoying a camping trip.

The Mediheal UV Cut Outdoor Sun Patch takes a step further in its skincare offering by infusing skin-friendly ingredients into the patch. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid delivers a hydration boost, glutathione imparts a brightening effect, and the vitamin derivatives provide gentle skin care. As such, the patch not only guards your skin against harmful sun rays but also nourishes it throughout the day.

Applying this sun patch is relatively straightforward. Tidy up the area where you wish to apply the patch, remove it from its transparent film, and place it on your skin. Ensure it is applied well around the desired areas for maximum protection. This patch can be conveniently used even during vigorous outdoor activities that involve sweating or oil production. Simply apply sunscreen after attaching the patch for comprehensive protection.

After usage, the Mediheal UV Cut Outdoor Sun Patch’s thoughtful design allows for easy storage. Any remaining patches can be kept in a ziplock bag to prevent them from drying out, ensuring they’re ready for use for your next sun-filled adventure.

Mediheal UV Cut Outdoor Sun Patch [Wide Protection]

Mediheal UV Cut Outdoor Sun Patch [Wide Protection] is more than just a sun protection product; it’s a state-of-the-art skin defense against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Designed to deliver comprehensive sun care, this sun patch is ideal for those seeking wide-range protection from UV exposure.

A standout feature of this product is its broad protection offering, making it the perfect choice for those wanting to safeguard larger areas of the skin. The patch is sizable and covers regions most exposed to the sun, such as beneath the eyes and the cheeks. It provides a physical barrier against UV rays, protecting your skin during lengthy outdoor activities.

The UV Cut Outdoor Sun Patch [Wide Protection] is perfect if your concern primarily lies with protecting more expansive areas like your cheekbones exposed to UV rays, even when wearing a hat.

The sun patch’s adherence is equally impressive. It sticks to the skin smoothly without causing any discomfort or a stuffy feeling. The product features tension cutting on the patch, which ensures it doesn’t lift off even on curved areas. It blends seamlessly with your skin, appearing natural due to its skin-tone hue.

What further enhances the appeal of the UV Cut Outdoor Sun Patch [Wide Protection] is its breathable fabric and the hydrogel material, offering a comfortable fit without irritating the skin. But the product doesn’t stop at just providing sun protection; it is also infused with skincare ingredients like tea tree 4X, six-fold hyaluronic acid, vitamin C derivatives, and glutathione to intensify its skincare benefits.

The application of this sun patch is as simple as it gets. Prepare the skin area, remove the patch from its transparent film, and place it on your skin. The patch can easily withstand outdoor activities, offering consistent protection even when you sweat or produce oil. Always apply sunscreen after attaching the patch for optimal protection. Post-use, store the remaining patches in a ziplock bag to keep them fresh for the next use.

DASHU Daily UV Cut Golf Patch

The Dashu Sun Patch is your ultimate sun protection and comfort companion during outdoor activities. With the Dashu UV Cut Big Golf Patch, you can enjoy the sun without worrying about harmful UV rays. This essential item is designed to provide optimal sun protection while offering a perfect fit for your convenience.

Its user-friendly design ensures easy application and guarantees a hygienic experience. Plus, the patch is highly portable, making it effortless to carry in your bag or pocket, ready whenever needed.

The Dashu Sun Patch features a functional fabric that effectively blocks harmful UV rays, protecting your skin from sun damage. On the backside, a patented hydrogel infused with collagen provides a cool and refreshing sensation, offering a soothing experience under the sun. The versatility of this patch allows you to apply it not only around your eyes but also on your face and body, providing a refreshing cooling effect wherever needed.

Regarding UV care, the Dashu Sun Patch has got you covered. It offers outstanding protection with UVR 99.7%, UVA 99.7%, and UVB 99.9%. These high percentages ensure your skin is shielded from the key factors that cause skin damage and premature aging.

Certified to block up to 99.9% of the three UV rays, the Dashu UV Cut Shield Patch is a reliable and long-lasting solution for outdoor activities. It has undergone a 24-hour skin test, showing an impressive irritation rate of 0.00%, making it suitable even for sensitive skin.

The Dashu Sun Patch Set wraps around the cheek zone, which is highly exposed to UV rays and provides excellent coverage and protection. The patch’s super elastic resilience and breathable fabric enhance ventilation and sweat absorption, promoting a comfortable and pleasant experience.

Heimish Watermelon Outdoor Soothing Sun Patch

Redefine your approach to sun protection with Heimish Watermelon Outdoor Soothing Sun Patch, an essential item for outdoor activities.

This incredible patch physically shields your skin from the harmful effects of intense ultraviolet rays, while simultaneously replenishing and soothing it from within.

One of the standout features of this sun patch is its ability to instantly soothe and moisturize your skin, leaving you with a refreshing, cooling sensation. With its curvy cutting and excellent hydrogel adhesion, the patch hugs your contours perfectly, ensuring maximum contact and effectiveness.

In the scorching heat, it’s crucial to prevent dark spots and sun damage from forming on your skin. The Watermelon Outdoor Soothing Sun Patch is infused with the goodness of watermelon fruit extract, shea butter, and moringa oleifera seed oil. These natural ingredients work together to nourish your skin while forming a protective barrier against harmful UV rays.

One of the main advantages of this sun patch is its reliable adhesive hydrogel formula. You can engage in various outdoor activities, and rest assured that the patch will stay securely in place without fearing it falling off. Whether swimming, hiking, or enjoying a sunny day at the beach, the Heimish Watermelon Outdoor Soothing Sun Patch covers you.

The Heimish Watermelon Outdoor Soothing Sun Patch Set includes five pairs of these incredible patches, giving you an ample supply to last through numerous outdoor adventures. Each patch is designed to offer long-lasting sun protection and hydration, making it an excellent investment for those who value the health and beauty of their skin.

BANILA CO – Hello Sunny UV Defense Golf Patch

The Banila Co Hello Sunny UV Defence Golf Patch is a revolutionary product for sun protection during outdoor activities. This incredible patch is crafted explicitly for golf enthusiasts who spend extended periods under the sun. Its advanced formula and innovative design protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays while you enjoy your favorite sport.

The Hello Sunny UV Defence Golf Patch features a powerful UV defense technology that physically blocks and reflects the sun’s rays, preventing them from penetrating your skin. This provides high protection against UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and other sun-related damage.

One of the standout features of this patch is its excellent adhesion and flexibility. The thin, lightweight material adheres securely to your skin, allowing easy movement and comfortable wear. Its discreet size and skin-tone color make it virtually invisible, ensuring you can focus on your game without distractions.

The Hello Sunny UV Defence Golf Patch is water-resistant, making it ideal for use during intense physical activities and in humid environments. It remains firmly in place even when you sweat or come into contact with water, guaranteeing reliable sun protection throughout your game.

This innovative golf patch is enriched with skin-nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and aloe vera extract. These ingredients provide hydration to your skin and help soothe and calm any irritation or redness caused by sun exposure.

TONYMOLY UV Master Sports Sun Patch

Experience the pinnacle of sun protection with the TONYMOLY UV Master Sports Sun Patch. This innovative, high-performance sun patch is designed for individuals leading active lifestyles, offering superior defense against harmful UV rays while ensuring optimal comfort and convenience.

The UV Master Sports Sun Patch provides exceptional protection, guarding your skin against UVA and UVB rays. Its broad-spectrum formula shields your skin from sunburn, premature aging, and other sun-induced damages, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor activities with peace of mind.

This sun patch is crafted with advanced technology and boasts a waterproof and sweat-resistant formula. It stays securely in place even during intense physical activities like swimming, running, or playing sports. No matter how active you are, the UV Master Sports Sun Patch remains steadfast, providing continuous and reliable sun protection.

The lightweight and breathable texture of the sun patch ensures optimal comfort, allowing your skin to breathe while preventing clogged pores. Its smooth and non-greasy finish leaves no sticky residue, making it ideal for daily wear.

Enriched with skin-loving ingredients, this sun patch soothes and nourishes your skin while combating the damaging effects of sun exposure. These natural extracts help to replenish moisture, soothe irritations, and promote a healthier complexion, even after prolonged sun exposure.

Embracing The Korean Sun Patch Revolution: Your Key To Innovative Sun Protection 

The evolution of sun protection has made significant strides with the introduction of sun patches, a game-changing innovation from Korea. This article has navigated the salient characteristics of sun patches, examining their distinctive UV shielding properties, ease of use, and nourishing skincare benefits. From the Mediheal Outdoor Sun Protect Patch’s triple protection to IOPE UV Shield’s ergonomic design and robust UV defense, there is no denying the many advantages sun patches bring to our skincare routine.

These lightweight, breathable patches are winning hearts across the globe, particularly in Korea, where they have gone viral. With an impressive ability to block harmful UVA and UVB rays, they offer an efficient solution for protecting the most vulnerable areas of our faces. Their skin-cooling effects and infusion of skin-loving ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid add another layer of appeal. 

However, the beauty of sun patches extends beyond their immediate functionality. Their surge in popularity underscores an essential message about prioritizing sun protection. Harmful UV rays are a leading cause of premature skin ageing and, more alarmingly, skin cancer. We are taking collective strides toward a healthier, brighter future for our skin by introducing innovative ways to improve sun protection, such as sun patches. 

Now is the perfect time to try out these sun protection heroes. Whether heading to the beach, climbing mountains, or simply strolling around the city, remember to pop a sun patch on. Let’s embrace this innovative skincare solution; together, we can redefine what it means to stay sun-safe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are sun patches, and how do they work?

Sun patches are an innovative skincare product from Korea designed to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation. They work as a physical barrier, adhering to the skin to block out UVA and UVB rays, which cause skin damage and premature aging. 

The patches are usually made from lightweight, breathable materials, ensuring they are comfortable and non-obtrusive for all-day wear. They are generally infused with skin-nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and sometimes antioxidants for additional skin benefits. 

To use, you apply a sun patch to areas of the face most exposed to the sun, such as under the eyes and on the cheekbones. They’re a user-friendly alternative to traditional sunscreens, as they don’t require reapplication and can’t be easily washed or sweated off. 

By offering a high UV protection rate and the bonus of skin-friendly ingredients, sun patches present a promising solution for effective sun protection in our skincare routines.

What are the benefits of using sun patches for sun protection?

Sun patches offer several benefits over traditional methods of sun protection. Firstly, they act as a physical barrier against harmful UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term sun damage, which can lead to premature skin ageing and even skin cancer. 

One significant advantage of sun patches is their convenience and ease of use. They are lightweight, breathable, and adhere excellently to the skin, providing all-day comfort and protection. Unlike sunscreen, they don’t need frequent reapplication, saving you time and worrying about your protection levels throughout the day.

Furthermore, many sun patches are infused with skin-nourishing ingredients such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and other antioxidants, providing additional skincare benefits alongside UV protection. Some patches even have a cooling effect that can help reduce skin temperature in hot weather.

Moreover, their targeted protection makes them ideal for areas often missed or insufficiently covered by sunscreen, such as the under-eye area and cheekbones. Thus, they are an excellent addition to a comprehensive sun protection routine.

Why are Koreans particularly obsessed with sun patches?

Koreans’ obsession with sun patches is largely attributed to their cultural emphasis on skincare and a clear, youthful complexion. The Korean beauty industry is renowned worldwide for its innovative and compelling products; sun patches are no exception. 

Sun damage is a significant factor in skin aging, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. Koreans understand the importance of sun protection in maintaining healthy, younger-looking skin and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Sun patches offer a practical, convenient, and comfortable solution to this need.

Moreover, many Korean sun patches are infused with skincare ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, aligning with the Korean beauty philosophy of nourishing the skin. This multi-functional approach appeals to Korean consumers who value protection and skin health.

Additionally, the physical outdoor lifestyle common in Korea, which includes activities like hiking and camping, increases exposure to harmful UV rays. This context further fuels the demand for innovative, practical sun protection solutions like patches. 

Are sun patches an effective alternative to sunscreen?

Sun patches are an innovative addition to sun protection methods, but they’re not designed to replace sunscreen completely. They are a physical barrier against harmful UV rays, usually offering high UVA and UVB protection rates. Many are also infused with skin-beneficial ingredients and offer a cooling effect, making them an appealing choice for targeted protection.

However, sun patches typically cover a limited area (like around the eyes, on the cheekbones) and thus cannot provide complete protection for the entire face or body. Sunscreen, on the other hand, can be applied to all exposed skin. 

Moreover, sun patches may not be as effective in protecting the skin from indirect or reflected UV radiation, which can still cause damage. Sunscreen, particularly broad-spectrum variants, can shield the skin from direct and indirect UV rays.

In conclusion, while sun patches are an effective supplementary tool for sun protection, especially for high-exposure areas, they should ideally be used with sunscreen and other sun protection measures, like wearing protective clothing or seeking shade, for comprehensive protection.

Do sun patches leave tan marks?

Sun patches are designed to physically block UV rays from reaching the skin underneath them, meaning that the skin under a sun patch is less likely to tan or burn than unprotected skin. As a result, if you’re exposed to the sun for a prolonged period while wearing sun patches, the skin underneath the patches might be lighter than the surrounding skin, creating a temporary difference in skin tone. This is similar to the contrast you might see when you remove a piece of jewelry after sun exposure.

However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t mean you’re “tan-free.” It indicates that your skin has been exposed to harmful UV radiation, which can cause skin damage and increase your risk of skin cancer. That’s why it’s crucial to use comprehensive sun protection, including sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, shade, and sun patches, to protect all of your skin from UV damage.